1943 - 2 and 3 Summary

Italian cities are being bombed, while Rome is spared, thus far. Ida is now responding to the alarms, running to the basement with Useppe, her corset containing her life savings safely strapped on. Nino eventually begins to go to the basement with his family and Blitz, who loves the outings. The raids provide some social interaction for Nino. People still feel Rome is protected by the Pope.

Nino, who welcomes the war, would be glad to be compensated for the loss of the poor building where they live. They learn from passersby that Naples is totally destroyed. Nino manages to get accepted into a battalion fighting for the Duce, and he leaves, hoping Useppe will care for Blitz.

Blitz is inconsolable without Nino, waiting and whining, and is finally allowed to sleep with Useppe. He is frequently left alone in the...